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Tendon Repair: Process and Recovery

Initially, the tendon is very weak and you may experience swelling as your body sends chemicals to heal the tendon and the tissues that have been damaged.

2 min read     21 Jul 2023

Understanding Tendon Repair

Initial Phase

  • The tendon’s integrity is mostly sustained by stitches.
  • The body begins to generate new tendon tissues; however, their connections remain fragile.
  • There might be swelling as the body releases chemicals to mend the damaged tissues. Utilising coban and tubigrip can help alleviate this inflammation.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Weeks 1-3

  • Silicone application to the scar can help reduce excessive scarring.
  • Introducing gentle movement to the injured region begins. Controlled forces are applied to the tendon to enable its fibres to align and mature.
  • A splint is worn, except during therapy sessions.

Weeks 4-7

  • Starting from the fourth week, light functional activities, not exceeding 1kg, are introduced to strengthen the tendon.
  • The splint remains in use for a total of five to six weeks.

Weeks 8-12

  • By the eighth week, the wound starts to contract and swelling begins to diminish.
  • The hand regains a more normal feeling and a modified work return can be initiated.
  • At approximately twelve weeks, the tendon should regain its full strength, mirroring the characteristics of an undamaged tendon.

Treatment Recommendations

Workplace Communication

It’s vital to maintain open dialogue with your employer to ensure they’re aware of the extent and nature of your injury. If possible, it’s advisable to resume work duties that only require one hand.

Exercise and Maintenance

For the best outcomes, strictly follow the exercise routine designed by your hand therapist. While the hand is recovering, keep all your other joints active to maintain their health. Your therapist will provide guidance on which joints to mobilise and which ones to keep static.

Other Considerations

Before you get back behind the wheel, consult your car insurance provider. Typically, a waiting period of twelve weeks is required post-surgery.

For further details and treatment options, please reach out to us.

Pain Management

Acute pain is when the body is working to heal structural tissue damage. Everything is done to ensure structural and mechanical integrity if maximised of the injured tissues.

Wound Management

Most wounds recover in the repair phase of healing. Our therapists look after your wounds by providing dressings that are applied with a sterile technique to avoid infection.

Mobilisation of Joints - Action Rehab | The Hands Physio

Mobilisation of Joints

Joint mobilisation involves moving the joint back and forth in small oscillating movements further and further into range to restore the joints normal movement.

Therapeutic Massage

Massage helps to improve blood supply to the injured area, helping you recover faster.



Exercise Prescription

Exercise is the body’s natural way of restoration to improve stability, mechanics, strength and movement to an injury. Whether the injury is from overuse, trauma, disease or surgery exercises are necessary to restore function.

Stretches

Stretching is extremely beneficial for our joints, muscles and tendons. Not only do they help prepare your body work/exercises they ensure you are working at your optimum energy efficiency.

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